SPRINGFIELD — Unemployment continued to decline in all 18 counties in South Central Illinois when compared to one year ago.
The data is not seasonally adjusted. Labor market conditions continued to improve through the end of 2014 in South Central Illinois. Employment gains were reported in Retail Trade, Professional-Business Services and Health Care in South Central Illinois.
Marion County dropped from 7.1 percent in February to 6.7 percent for March, down significantly from the 8.6 percent in February 2014.
Jefferson County stood at 6.2 percent for March, down from 6.5 percent in February and down from 8.1 in March 2014.
Washington County had 4.3 percent unemployment over the past month, down a tenth of a percent. Clinton County was at 4.8 percent.
Payroll advances occurred in Leisure-hospitality and Transportation this spring. Construction activity increased as favorable weather conditions prevailed.
Numerous employment opportunities in the first quarter 2015 were advertised in Healthcare and Transportation. Job openings also were reported in Office and Administrative Support, Sales, Management, and Production occupations. Employment opportunities included jobs in Computer Services, Engineering, and Installation, Maintenance, and Repair occupations.